French writer Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr once wrote in his epigrams: “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”; which for those of unfamiliar with French translates to “the more it changes, the more it’s the same thing”. Groovin The Moo in 2017 made its first appearance in South Australia at the infamous Adelaide Showgrounds, vastly different from its original location in Oakbank. However, the sell-out crowd were once again greeted with a gloomy winter-esque atmosphere (referred to as “Groovin The Mud” in past years), but misery was far from consideration by the attendees, if there were premises to assign to the festival – “victory” and “mystery” would be certainly suiting.

Adelaide-based progressive folk luminary Tom West had the privilege of the opening slot for the festival and brought out his entire arsenal for the presentation. A six-piece band including keys and a banjo serenaded the early observers, although not quite in a spirited fashion, more-so a soothing manner. Single ‘Easy, Love’ was the standout which channelled Pennsylvania’s criminally unknown Koji; honestly though, it wasn’t an enthusiastic engagement but a warm welcome nonetheless. Continue reading →